The final countdown is underway for the 2020 FEST, which begins at 3 p.m. Aug. 9.
Normally, tens of thousands of people would descend on the Center for Pastoral Leadership in Wickliffe for the daylong festival of faith, family and fun. Even the coronavirus pandemic couldn’t stop The FEST, which was redesigned this year so everyone can enjoy it from the comfort of their homes.
Father Bob Stec, FEST coordinator, suggested that people reflect on the song “We are the World,” which was released 35 years ago to bring help and hope to some troubled spots in the world. As The FEST celebrates its 20thanniversary, the inspiring day of faith and family will bring together nine of the top Christian bands/artists for songs of inspiration and hope.
“This year, The FEST@home will end with an inspiring song featuring these nine artists and The FEST Band in an inspiring piece written for The FEST – written and sung – to give everyone hope in these challenging and difficult times,” he said.
“The ending of The FEST always shares a special message or song that can carry us home and walk us into a new school/parish year. Songs stir our souls and give us comfort and peace,” Father Stec said. “This amazing song, written by Tom Bonezzi, will be something everyone will want to share. It will stick with you and remind you for the work we need to do to build that better world for all God’s people.”
The day will be filled with music, songs and messages that remind us that God is in our midst “and our future is full of hope,” Father Stec said. The FEST@home, while different than other years, will feature many of the favorite things that can help all ages reflect on their lives, count their blessings and develop a plan for the upcoming fall season and school year, he added.
There is something for everyone at The FEST@home. The new website, powered by Meritech, will serve as the “Main Stage” and contain a virtual FEST grounds where people can visit the Kid’s Craft Area, participate in a Zoom call with one of the deacons of the Catholic Diocese of Cleveland who will pray with them, or stop by the Catholic Cemeteries Book of Remembrance to write the names of loved ones they would like remembered at the evening Mass, which will be celebrated by Bishop Roger Gries. The Mass will be livestreamed at 8 p.m. on the website.
“In a world that’s filled with challenges, The FEST@home promises to be a celebration of hope, of God’s presence in our midst,” Father Stec said.
He invited everyone to check out The FEST website now to set reminders for their favorite band/activity. The FEST will send a text 10 minutes before that event so you don’t miss anything. While on the website, visitors also can sign for gift basket giveaways provided by Marc’s, a longtime fest sponsor. There also are giveaways for men in the Man Cave site.
“You’ll be able to visit every area of the grounds, just as if you were there,” Father Stec said. The new website, which launched last week, offers a website within a website, he added. Each FEST area, such as the main stage, has its own page where “attendees” can watch bands perform. The prayer site allows people to pray the rosary live, get a blessing or participate in adoration, as well as learn about vocations, find a location for confession, get prayer resources and more.
This year’s theme is “Glorious” and Father Stec said that’s exactly what TheFEST@ home will be: a glorious day for those who participate.
And as always, the highlight of TheFEST@home will be the closing Mass, followed by a fireworks display immediately after.
A complete schedule of events, activities, performers and more can be found at thefest.us.